Digital museum showcasing the collection of worldwide legends over the years! 千古不朽博物館展示多年來收藏的世界傳奇故事!
Qing Dynasty
Zhengde Tongbao Charm
(Dragon Playing with the Phoenix)
清 正德通寶 花錢
(游龍戲鳳)
Item number: A1107
Year: AD 1636-1911
Material: Brass
Size: 31.7 x 31.9 x 1.8 mm
Weight: 10.25 g
Provenance:
1. Noonans 2022
2. D. L. F. Sealy Collection
This is a Qing Dynasty-era “Zhengde Tongbao” coin, minted as a “flower coin” in the era name of the previous Ming Dynasty emperor, Emperor Wuzong. The coin follows the typical square-holed design. On the obverse side, the four characters “Zhengde Tongbao” (正德通寶) are inscribed in regular script in the sequence of top, bottom, right, and left. Surrounding the central inscription, the outer rim features a pair of dragons and phoenixes intricately engraved in relief, symbolically connected to the legendary tale of Emperor Zhengde’s romantic escapades, famously known as “The Dragon Plays with the Phoenix.” On the reverse side of the coin, the upper edge is inscribed with the character “Wen” (文), adding further significance to the piece.
“Zhengde” was the era name of Emperor Wuzong of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Houzhao, who reigned from AD 1505 to AD 1521.However, during his reign, no coins bearing his era name were officially minted. The name “Zhengde” carries the connotation of “upright virtue,” which led to the Qing Dynasty’s production of many flower coins known as “Zhengde Tongbao.”
Flower coins, also known as “Yansheng coins” or “Yasheng coins,” were not formal currency. Initially, they were primarily used for prayers for good fortune and to ward off evil spirits. Over time, their usage became more widespread. These coins were minted from the Western Han Dynasty to the early Republic of China, with a particular abundance and variety during the Qing Dynasty.
During Emperor Zhengde’s reign, many of his actions were considered eccentric, with his notorious establishment of the “Leopard House” within the palace being particularly famous. This flower coin features the “Dragon Playing with the Phoenix” (游龍戲鳳) imagery, which is based on a popular folk tale from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The story recounts how Emperor Wuzong, disguised in plain clothes, encountered a tavern woman named Li Fengjie.
Due to Emperor Wuzong being nicknamed the “Wandering Dragon” (游龍), this tale became intertwined with folk beliefs. People came to believe that wearing this flower coin while crossing rivers would ensure safe passage, making it a widely cherished token among the populace.